Composting at Home

If organic material is placed in a composting bin, the material eventually biodegrades and turns into soil. Composting creates conditions that speed up the natural of breaking down of organic material. Organic material (for the most part) can be defined as anything that previously grew out of the ground such as:

Egg shells (considered organic and compostable even though your eggs did not grow out of the ground.)

Paper napkins and paper towels

What not to put in your compost bin:

Oils and fats

Dairy

Meat, fish and bones

Pet waste

Not everyone in the city has space for outdoor composting, but composting can be done both indoors and outdoors. There are many different types of composters that can be purchased for $100-400, but you can also make your own composter for under $50. See our Composting at Home handout [PDF] to learn how to do it yourself for less.

Once you’ve purchased or crafted your indoor or outdoor compost bin and have started to add food or yard waste, be sure to monitor it. No one wants a stinky compost bin, so be sure to monitor moisture, aeration, and drainage (tips on troubleshooting can be found in the Composting at Home handout [PDF]).

The District recommends using metal outdoor compost bins with a tight fitting lid to prevent rats from chewing through and entering containers.

Benefits of composting

By composting in your home or backyard, you are generating less waste that would otherwise be driven 150 miles before being thrown in a landfill. Landfills (which are not aerated like your compost bin) also produce methane, a greenhouse gas that is 25 times more potent than carbon dioxide. Not only are you reducing your waste and your carbon footprint, but you are turning your waste into black gold that can be used in your potted plants, shared with your neighbors or to given to your local community garden.

Cut it and leave it!

Instead of cutting, raking, bagging and tossing your grass clippings, try leaving them on your lawn or spread them around your garden and flower beds. Placing grass clippings out with your garbage is a waste of money, landfill space and nutrients.

Grass clippings provide a natural and healthy fertilizer for a growing lawn. Studies have shown that leaving grass clipping reduces the need for fertilizers and mowing. Save time and money and leave your grass clippings on your lawn.

Make your lawn truly organic by eliminating chemical fertilizers, herbicides and pesticides. Chemical pesticides can pose hazards to humans, pets, and aquatic life and fertilizers can cause algae growth and water quality issues. If you own a small yard, also consider using a gasless push mower.

Contact TTY:

711

Skip the Bag - Save the River

District businesses selling food or alcohol are required to charge $.05 for each disposable paper or plastic carryout bag. Find out about DC's Bag Law.

EnergySmart DC

A single resource for all you need to know about energy efficiency and renewable energy programs, products and services in the District.